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Simplifying with Substitutions

Mike McGarry
Lesson by Mike McGarry
Magoosh Expert
Quiz
Algebra, Equations, and Inequalities
Summary
The content provides advanced strategies for simplifying complex algebra problems on the GMAT exam, focusing on the use of substitutions to reduce equation complexity and solve for variables efficiently.
  • Introduces a sophisticated trick involving right-brain pattern matching for simplifying advanced algebra problems by identifying and substituting repeated expressions with a single variable.
  • Demonstrates the process through practice problems, showing how to replace complex expressions with a simpler variable, solve for this variable, and then use the solution to solve for the original variables.
  • Highlights the importance of recognizing patterns and making strategic substitutions to transform difficult equations into simpler ones that are easier to solve.
  • Provides a step-by-step guide on solving quadratic equations and compound fractions by breaking them down into more manageable parts using substitution.
  • Emphasizes careful back-substitution of the solved values to find the solutions to the original equations, illustrating the method with examples that have multiple solutions.
Chapters
00:00
Simplifying Advanced Algebra Problems
01:01
Substitution Technique for Quadratic-like Equations
02:34
Solving Complex Equations Using Substitution
03:35
Applying Substitution to Compound Fractions